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Clarke 'jumped' at Powell offer

Charlton's new signing Leon Clarke claims manager Chris Powell played a huge part in his decision to sign from Swindon.

Last Updated: 03/01/12 5:56pm

Charlton's new signing Leon Clarke claims manager Chris Powell played a huge part in his decision to sign from Swindon.

The 26-year-old striker found himself surplus to requirements at the County Ground after falling out with manager Paolo Di Canio and signed for the current League One leaders on New Year's Day.

Clarke told the Addicks' official website: "I'm really happy to be here. When I found out that Charlton were interested in me, I jumped at the chance to come to the club.

"A couple of days before January 1, the chairman of Swindon contacted my agent and myself and said there had been interest from Charlton and he was happy for me to speak to the manager here.

"I had a phone call from the manager and we had a nice chat and he made the move easier with the things he said to me. It was quite simply, really.

"Everything he said made sense. It was nice and reassuring the way he spoke about the players, his staff and everyone who works at the club as well as telling me about the training ground and The Valley."